Naperville author to discuss politics of Cold War era

Naperville author Neal F. Thompson will visit Cantigny Park's First Division Museum next week to discuss his book examining the politics of the Cold War era.

Based on his book "Reckoning: Vietnam and America's Cold War Experience, 1945-1991," Thompson's presentation begins at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, in the Cantigny Visitors Center, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Admission and parking are free.

Published in 2013 following years of exhaustive research, Thompson's book examines how political agendas shaped our country's Cold War policy, involvement in Vietnam and views on communism.

The author challenges conventional wisdom in each of these areas in a thought-provoking examination of U.S. history post World War II.

Thompson entered the U.S. Army in 1970 and served a one-year tour of duty in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot. Following his discharge in 1974, he joined the Illinois National Guard, serving for 28 years before retiring in 2003.

A resident of Naperville, Thompson currently practices law in Chicago.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Copies of "Reckoning" will be for sale and a book signing will follow the program.

For details about upcoming programs, visit fdmuseum.org.